U. S.  Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has notified Ste. Jeanne d ‘Arc  School of Lowell that it has been designated as a 2010 National Blue Ribbon School – a distinction awarded to only fifty private schools in the nation.

Principla Sr. Prescille Malo notified parents that these Blue Ribbon Schools are “places where improved teaching and improved learning benefits every student, and where students are challenged to meet high expectations with the active support of teachers, parents and the community.”

From the press release:

September 9, 2010 – LOWELL, MA – Ste Jeanne d’Arc School announced that it has achieved recognition as one of 304 schools, and one of 50 private schools, in the nation to achieve the coveted 2010 National Blue Ribbon award. The award honors public and private schools that are academically superior. The Department of Education has sought out schools where students attain and maintain high academic goals. In order to be considered for Blue Ribbon status, a school must be in the top 10% in nationally-normed tests.

“These Blue Ribbon Schools have shown that all children can learn with appropriate supports, ” said Arne Duncan, U. S. Secretary of Education. “They are producing outstanding results for their students. Some have shown dramatic improvements in places where students are overcoming the challenges of poverty, and others serve as examples of consistent excellence that can be a resource for other schools. They are places where improved teaching and learning benefits every student, and where students are challenged to meet high expectations with the active support of teachers, parents and the community.”

“It is an honor to be recognized for the quality of education that is a daily experience at SJA. The applause goes to the entire staff which is dedicated to academic excellence, students who live the mission, and all who support the vision of this community of learners,” said Sr. Préscille Malo, Principal of Ste Jeanne d’Arc School.

Ste Jeanne d’Arc School was established in 1910 to serve the children of the Pawtucketville section of Lowell, Massachusetts. It has grown to serve the children of the Greater Lowell area, serving 450 students in grades Pre-K through 8 from 16 different cities and towns in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

 Congratulations to Sr. Prescille and her staff but especially kudos to the students and the parents of Ste. Jeanne d’Arc for their committment to seeking and providing the highest levels of excellence in education.